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The Oaks has wrapped up its season, and what a finish it was. This marked the last show at San Juan Capistrano for the year, and the goodbyes carried a little extra weight knowing we won’t be back until spring. In October, we'll be at the Temecula Valley National Fall I, II, and III, so if you’re heading that way, come say hello and don't forget to stop by for a complimentary scrunchie.
Some weeks the sport just glows brighter, and this was one of them. From historic trophies in the U.S. to electric atmospheres in Morocco and France, I found myself swept along by grit, disbelief, and moments of pure joy. These are the five rounds that stayed with me the most.
My favorite classes this week:
The American Gold Cup has always carried a certain mystique, and this year Kent Farrington (USA) & Greya turned it into pure electricity. Already holding the world No. 1 spot, Farrington arrived with pressure on his shoulders and delivered a masterclass. Against a formidable field, he piloted the ten-year-old mare to a blistering 34.75s, clinching his record sixth five-star Grand Prix in just twelve months. The crowd roared as Shane Sweetnam (IRL) & James Kann Cruz, chasing an unprecedented American Gold Cup hat trick, crossed just a fraction too slow. It was less about statistics and more about legacy, Farrington’s quiet fist pump sealing the moment.
Official Results
Not far behind in excitement was the Longines Global Champions Tour Grand Prix of New York. With Manhattan glittering across the Hudson, Gilles Thomas (BEL) & Qalista DN seized the moment in a way that felt almost cinematic. His jump-off was bold yet effortless, leaving his mare flying each fence with rhythm. When his time secured his second LGCT Grand Prix of the season, disbelief gave way to joy. Just behind, Thibault Philippaerts (BEL) made his first LGCT Grand Prix podium appearance, adding another layer of emotion. The cheers rolled out over the river, making this feel larger than sport itself.
Official Results
Half a world away, Saturday night in Tétouan showed why the Morocco Royal Tour is so beloved. Under the glow of lights and the presence of the Royal Guard, Emanuele Gaudiano (ITA) & Crack Balou thrilled the crowd with another lightning-fast victory. Known for daring speed, Gaudiano wasted no time and set the standard early in the jump-off. Alix Ragot (FRA) & Gueule d’Amours gave chase, but could not quite close the gap, with Abdulrahman Al Rajhi (KSA) & Ventago rounding out an international podium. Riders themselves called the atmosphere “exceptional,” and the fans’ pride was palpable.
Official Results
Of course, another highlight for me was in St. Tropez, where sport met glamour at the Polo Club. Kevin Jochems (NED) & Prada di Costa M, second-to-last in the ring, had one mission: catch Stephan de Freitas Barcha (BRA) & Dinozo Império Egípcio, who had led nearly all evening. Jochems sliced the turns and stopped the clock in 65.50s, stealing the prize in front of a lively crowd. For a first-time CSIO5* at this venue, it was the kind of finish every organizer dreams of, where one daring ride flips the result and the ovation feels truly earned.
Official Results
Back in the U.S., thrills came at Old Salem Farm in a class that proved smaller doesn’t mean quieter. Paul O’Shea (IRL) & Hellcat clinched the $25,000 Welcome Stake CSI2* by just 0.01s over Kaitlin Campbell (USA) & Karius. Campbell’s 38.49s looked unassailable until O’Shea crossed in 38.48s, the scoreboard sparking gasps and laughter from a crowd that loved every second. It was proof that joy doesn’t only belong to five-star lights, but also to photo-finish duels where the sport feels raw and alive.
What tied this week together for me was the sheer variety of stages and emotions. From the history-steeped American Gold Cup to the glitter of New York, the royal atmosphere in Morocco, the glamour of St. Tropez, and the nail-biting duel at Old Salem, each class showed a different side of showjumping’s spirit. Five arenas, five stories, and one sport that never stops surprising.
